By Cicely A. Richard
The Arab country of Syria has ancient roots, bordering Lebanon, the Mediterranean Sea, Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Turkey. Its capital, Damascus, was the seat of one of the most prosperous kingdoms of ancient time, excelling culturally and politically. During its thousand year history, various empires, including the Mamluk, have established roots in this Islamic country. Syria has experienced civil unrest and clashed with many of its neighbors. However, people visit this country for diplomatic reason and even tourism. The passport requirements for Syria are specific for entering and exiting the country.
Passport and Visa
Everyone entering the country of Syria is required to have a passport and visa. Syrian passport requirements state that these documents must be obtained for a Syrian diplomatic mission from the travelers' country of residence. Because Syria constantly updates its passport requirements, people planning to visit should contact the Embassy of Syria in Washington, D.C. at (202) 232-6313 for more information.
Extended Stays
Passport requirements for Syria include registering with the Syrian immigration authorities if they are staying in the country more than 15 days. This registration must be completed before the 15th day of the stay. Syrian-American men or any male of Syrian ancestry, whether they were born in the United States or not, may be obligated to take part in military service unless they receive exemption from a Syrian diplomatic mission abroad before entering the country.
Departure Tax
The passport requirements for Syria consist of paying a departure tax, except for people who hold diplomatic passports. For those traveling by air, it costs 1,500 Syrian pounds, or approximately $33 U.S. Those departing via one of their land borders pay 500 Syrian pounds, or $10. Travelers should find out if the departure tax is included in the ticket price or not.
Restrictions on Entry
Even if a person has a valid passport for entering Syria, the Syrian government denies access to anyone who has a stamp on their visa or passport indicating they have traveled to Israel prior to their visit to Syria. Syrian immigration authorities impose these restrictions on people entering with Israeli stamps even if they are entering from Jordan or any other country. If anyone is suspected of visiting Israel prior to entering Syria, they may be subject to questioning by Syrian authorities.
Travel to Iraq
People who meet passport requirements for visiting Syria do not recommend travel to Iraq. Syrian security officials state that there have been times when Americans, particularly those of Arab descent have been held for questioning in Iraq. Syria, too, has turned people away from the Iraq border and questioned by authorities. Because the Syrian-Iraqi border can close at a moment's notice, people can become stranded on either side of the border.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Tucson, Ariz., Cicely A. Richard has been writing since 1996. Her articles have been published in the “Arizona Daily Star” newspaper and “ForeWord Magazine.” Richard earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and journalism from Louisiana State University.
